When digital content, software, and hardware are built with people with disabilities in mind, these products remove barriers and support using assistive technology devices like screen readers, braille devices, and different visual displays.
At 1.85 billion people globally, People with Disabilities represent nearly one person in five on the planet.
Who is impacted by non-compliant electronic and information resources (EIR)?
People with disabilities (PWD) and those using assistive technology devices are most impacted by non-compliant EIR. Who we do this for:
- People without vision/with limited vision
- People without perception of color
- People without hearing/with limited hearing
- People without speech
- People with limited manipulation abilities
- People with tremors or arthritis
- People with limited reach and strength
- People with learning and cognitive obstacles
- People with limited attention situations
- People who have photosensitive seizure disorders
The causes for disabilities–ranging from birth, illness, or age–are as varied as the degree of impact, which can present as permanent, temporary, or situational. The good news is, when considering digital accessibility from the beginning, you create spaces that increase the usability for everyone.
Examples of accessibility barriers and assistive technologies
On this page you will find some explanations and examples of accessibility barriers that people commonly experience due to inaccessible websites and web tools. You will also find assistive technology devices that can increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Neither is a complete list and both are for informational purposes only.
Visual
Visual disabilities range from mild to moderate loss of vision in one or both eyes. Also categorized as “low vision” to uncorrectable or substantial loss of vision in both eyes or “blindness”.) May have reduced or lack of sensitivity to certain colors “color blindness” or increased sensitive to bright colors. Variations in perception of color and blindness also included. Flashing and fast-moving content can cause seizure.
Examples of assistive technology used by people with visual impairments are:- Braille Display - Braille users can read computer screens thanks to refreshable displays
- Screen Readers - Screen readers interact with webpages and applications to read semantic content to the user
- Screen Magnifier - Software can enlarge the content displayed on a screen to make it easier for users with low vision to see it
- Large print materials
- Large tactile buttons
- Color Display – People with low vision or other visual sensitivities may use “dark mode” or change the color setting
Auditory
Ranges from mild to moderate hearing loss of hearing in one or both ears to a significant and uncorrectable hearing loss in both ears. Maybe able to hear sounds but not sufficiently to understand meaning.
Examples of assistive technology used by people with hearing impairments are:
- Hearing aids and cochlear implants – a variety of hearing aids are available to assist with making sound clearer. There are five general types of assistive listening devices: audio induction (also called a hearing) loop, FM system, infrared system, personal amplified system and Bluetooth systems.
- Instant messaging - Instant Messaging is a form of real-time communication between two or more people based on typed text.
- Telephone relay - A telephone relay service that links your telephone with a specialized program for personal computers, laptops, mobile phones, or other devices capable of utilizing an IP Relay provider.
- Sign language – American Sign Language is a language expressed by movements of the hands and face. Interpreters are available for a fee.
- Flashing alerts – Telephones, doorbells, and alarm systems that include flashing as well as sound.
- Closed captioning – Text displayed on multimedia files that matches the auditory content.
Speech
People with speech disabilities who need assistance with speaking including face-to-face communication.
Examples of assistive technology used by people with speech impairments are:
- Voice amplification systems
- Communication boards
- Speech output software
- Symbol-making software
- Speech generating devices
Physical
Physical impairments are sometimes referred to as motor disabilities or impairments. These impairments can include weakness and limitations of muscular control or involuntary movements that may include tremors, lack of coordination or paralysis. Impairments also include limitations of sensation or of pain that impedes movement, like arthritis.
Examples of assistive technology used by people with physical impairments are:
- Keyboards - With over 400 types of keyboards available, users with many types of disabilities have many options for navigating without using a mouse.
- Voice recognition - Software, like Siri and Alexa, helps users dictate text and control their computers with their voice.
- Wheelchairs
- Walking assistance – walkers, canes and crutches
Cognitive
People with cognitive impairments need assistance with learning, attention, memory, and organization.
Examples of assistive technology used by people with cognitive impairments are:
- Memory aids
- Text-to-Speech systems to support learning (not related to vision needs)
- Reminder systems
- Note-taking systems
- Mobile devices with specialized applications
- Audio books